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City of Chestermere News

Chestermere Sets Cannabis Regulations for the Community

Recreational use of cannabis, as per federal law, became legal in Canada on October 17.

Chestermere’s cannabis regulations include:

A ban on consumption in public places. Cannabis may only be used in one’s private home or on private property. There is a consumption ban in all public places. A maximum penalty of $10,000 is included in the bylaw.

Allowing for the sale of cannabis. The sale of cannabis is only permitted by provincially licensed retailers, and the commercially zoned retail locations have restrictions. These restrictions include setbacks from sensitive uses (schools, child care facilities, the Skate Park, Bike Park, etc.) and regulated hours of operation.

Growing cannabis at home. The federal law allows for residents to grow their own cannabis from government provided seeds. There is a four plant maximum. Any Chestermere resident wishing to grow their own cannabis as per the federal law must also obtain a Chestermere municipal permit and register their home as residential cannabis cultivation site. More details on how to apply for the permit and register your home will be provided soon.

These regulations were developed over the past year. Prior to setting Chestermere’s regulations, the City considered federal and provincial legislation, extensive research, neighbouring municipal regulations, and public consultation results.

“We had over 1000 people give us their opinions on this topic and we believe we’ve set strong regulations for our community,” says Mayor Marshall Chalmers. “As this is new for all municipalities, we will monitor the impact of these regulations in our community over the next year and we plan to check in to make sure we got it right.”